Written by: Mary Smith, Private Wealth Insurance Strategic Lead
Weiss Ratings looked at 2025 insurer data and found that Utah insurers initiated nonrenewals equal to 4.45% of homeowners policies in force. That’s about 1 in every 22 policies, the highest rate in the country.[weissratings.com]
The number matters, but the better question is what you can do about it.
There is always a solution, and a knowledgeable broker will work with you to find that solution.
What are underwriters looking at?
Underwriters are looking harder at wildfire exposure, older roofs and concentrations of insured homes within the same neighborhood or subdivision. I expect that scrutiny to continue as carriers evaluate which properties they’re willing to insure.
For homeowners, that means the condition of your property and the steps you’ve taken to reduce risk can matter.
A few things that can help:
- Keep trees and shrubs away from the house
- Replace or maintain an aging roof
- Install a centrally monitored alarm
- Add automatic water shut-off devices
None of these guarantees that a carrier will renew your coverage. They can, however, put you in a better position for the conversation.
Give yourself time before renewal
One of the most useful things you can do is give yourself time.
If you’re concerned about your coverage, I recommend calling your broker 30 to 45 days before your renewal date, not after a notice arrives.
Starting early gives you and your broker time to understand potential underwriting concerns, address risks where possible and explore other options if your current carrier is no longer the right fit.
What if you receive a nonrenewal?
If you receive a nonrenewal notice, call your agent or broker right away.
A nonrenewal doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of options.
Depending on your situation, there may be other standard carriers willing to consider the property, as well as specialty or surplus-lines options.
The surplus-lines market is already becoming more prevalent in Utah. Weiss Ratings reported that homeowners surplus-lines premiums in the state increased from approximately $1.1 million in 2018 to $13.7 million in 2025.[weissratings.com]
If you’re considering an alternative option, don’t look at price alone. Make sure you understand the coverage, deductible, policy terms and protections before making a decision.
Why an independent broker matters
That’s where working with an independent broker can make a difference.
At Buckner, we can go to multiple carriers rather than being limited to one company’s underwriting guidelines. We can look at the individual property, understand the risks an underwriter may be concerned about and help determine which markets may be a fit.
If traditional coverage isn’t available, we can also explore specialty and surplus-lines options when appropriate.
The goal isn’t simply to find a policy. It’s to understand your options and find the solution that makes sense for your situation.
Preparation matters
Utah’s homeowners insurance market is changing. The best thing homeowners can do is be proactive.
Understand the risks around your property. Take steps to reduce the risks you can control. And don’t wait until the last minute to start thinking about your renewal.
There is always a solution, and a knowledgeable broker will work with you to find that solution.
Worried about an upcoming renewal?
Let’s talk early.
Buckner’s Private Wealth team can help you understand potential underwriting concerns and explore the coverage options available for your property.
*Coverage availability, eligibility, underwriting requirements, pricing and policy terms vary by carrier and individual risk. This content is provided for general informational purposes and does not guarantee the availability of insurance coverage.
Sources
- Weiss Ratings, Utah Homeowners Dropped by Insurers at Highest Rate in Nation, September 8, 2026. [weissratings.com]
- Insurance Business, Utah overtakes California and Florida as insurers pull back from homeowners fastest, September 8, 2026. [insuranceb…essmag.com]